FINAL BILL REPORT

2SSB 6309

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Senate Committee on Human Services, Reentry & Rehabilitation

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

House Committee on Human Services & Early Learning

House Committee on Appropriations

Background: Women, Infant, and Children Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. The federal Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) provides fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables to participants. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or post-partum and children ages one to five years are eligible to participate in WIC FMNP. In Washington, WIC FMNP is administered by the Department of Health (DOH). Each eligible client receives a benefit for the summer season for purchasing fruits and vegetables at an authorized farmers market.

According to DOH, in Washington State the WIC FMNP program is able to serve approximately 27,665 out of 133,000 potential eligible participants to receive WIC FMNP benefits. The current amount of the benefit is $28 for each participant. The maximum benefit allowed under federal regulations cannot exceed $30 per season, although states may offer benefits in excess of that amount with state, local, or private funds to create a total benefit level higher than $30 per participant.

Summary: Subject to appropriation, DOH is to distribute a fruit and vegetable benefit no less than $28, per summer farmers' market season to eligible participants in the WIC FMNP. To the extent federal funds are available, DOH will use federal funds up to the maximum benefit allowable under federal law.

Votes on Final Passage:

Senate	46	0
House	97	0